Winter is the most delicate time of the year for the exotic flowers from the rainforest. Some orchids are now in full bloom, while other species are taking a break from growth. Read here how you can skilfully accompany the queen of flowers through the cold season.
How do I properly care for orchids in winter?
To successfully care for orchids in winter, you should place them in a south-facing window, water more sparingly, spray daily, fertilize every 4-6 weeks, do not fertilize dormant orchids and avoid drafts through tilted windows. An insulating base prevents cold bridges on window sills.
Skillful care from November to March – What you should pay attention to
From All Saints Day onwards we can no longer close our eyes to the fact that the days are becoming increasingly dark and cold. Now the focus is on other care-related aspects for orchids than in summer. The following overview summarizes the most important factors for the winter time:
- During the dark winter period, the south window may exceptionally serve as a location
- From November, orchids should only be dipped once a week or watered more sparingly
- At the beginning of the heating season, spray daily with soft water
- Fertilize flowering plants liquidly every 4 to 6 weeks
- Do not fertilize dormant orchids in winter
- Protect the plants from the blazing sun from March
Lack of light and low humidity are the biggest problems in winter. With special plant lamps (€17.00 at Amazon) you can keep photosynthesis going on flowering orchids. Daily spraying alone does not generate the required humidity in heated rooms. If you place a humidifier in the immediate vicinity or fill the saucer with expanded clay and water, the royal flower will thank you for your thoughtfulness.
Avoid cold shock caused by drafts
Active radiators make the air in living rooms stuffy in winter. To let in fresh air, please do not tilt the windows in front of which your orchids are located. There is too great a risk that the noble plants will suffer a cold shock, so that they will suddenly drop all their flowers.
Cold bridges can form on window sills made of natural stone, which affect the heat-loving orchids from below. If in doubt, place the flower pots on an insulating surface made of wood or Styrofoam.
Tip
Frost-resistant, native terrestrial orchids require less care in winter than their tropical counterparts on the windowsill. Before the first frost, cover the root disc with a thick layer of leaves or garden fleece. Only cut off the retracted shoots close to the ground in early spring in order to use them as natural winter protection.
